As the 2025 NFL season is upon us, with the first game kicking off a Thursday Night matchup between the Eagles and Cowboys, collectors are also getting ready.
Player performance will have a direct impact on NFL trading card values, and while some stars will continue to have card values rise, others stand on less solid ground.
Check out the players below who have both upward and downward spirals, and how it reflects the broader trading card market for these stars.
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Players Seeing a Surge
Geno Smith
Geno Smith is seeing a surge in projected value. The quarterback plans to debut his skills with the Las Vegas Raiders after playing for the Seattle Seahawks last season. Entering his 13th NFL season, Smith will reunite with former Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll, who is now at the helm of the Raiders.
Smith’s career has been a blend of persistence and resurgence, going from starter turned backup to a breakout star in 2022. His on-field skills are desirable for the Raiders, and may return him to the postseason, increasing his card’s value.
Terry McLaurin
Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin is another player with rising card values. McLaurin recently concluded a contract dispute by signing a three-year $96 million extension, proving his impact on the team’s offense. He has been consistent over the years, with five consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons and a career-best 13 touchdowns in 2024.
His standing as a top NFL wide receiver got him recognized by the NFL’s Top 100 players list for 2025, earning a No. 52 ranking. Collectors are responding to his continued success with rising card values.
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Laiatu Latu
Rookie linebacker Laiatu Latu of the Indianapolis Colts shows some real promise as a breakout player, garnering the attention of fans after a notable rookie season amidst the Colts’ defensive struggles.
The Colts have ranked near the bottom of the league in points allowed over the last three seasons, but Latu’s disruptive presence in the backfield could be pivotal for the team’s success this year.
Trey McBride
Trey McBride of the Arizona Cardinals has slowly climbed the ranks, featuring a standout third-year season in 2024, where he grabbed 111 receptions for over 1,100 yards. His versatility on the field, combined with his size, has earned high praise from elite defenders like cornerback Pat Surtain II.
This only increases interest in the younger player and drives up the value for his 2025 NFL trading cards.
Players Seeing a Decline
Aaron Rodgers
While he may be a lauded and seasoned player, Aaron Rodgers‘ card values have declined. The Hall of Fame-bound quarterback is now with the Pittsburgh Steelers after a rocky two years with the New York Jets and his unforgettable journey as a Green Bay Packer.
Rodgers has endured a cooling of interest surrounding his more common cards despite his career and continued presence on the field at 41 years old.
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Justin Herbert
Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert is facing criticism due to his lack of playoff success over his first five seasons, leading to tempered enthusiasm around his cards. He may have an impressive arm and statistics over the years, but a playoff win and a successful season will be the best options to increase his card values.
Tua Tagovailoa
Similarly, Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa‘s potential and targeted throws are overshadowed by ongoing injury concerns surrounding concussions, limiting his participation in four of his five NFL seasons.
This fragility and volatility hit hard with collectors and investors who fear another injury could completely derail his career trajectory, and it shows in declining card values.
Josh Downs
Colts receiver John Downs has also suffered a barrage of injuries, which has tamped down his early promise to the team. He is currently dealing with a hamstring issue before the 2025 season begins. Likewise, his cards have seen a cautious market response despite arriving in Week 1 without an injury designation.
Only time will tell if his cards pivot to the positive.
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Performance Influences Value
As the season gets into full swing, player trends and performances will continue to influence NFL trading card valuations, with market watchers relying on trusted price guides to navigate the evolving landscape.
The ties between on-field success, injuries, contract developments, and team dynamics underscore the relationship between football narratives and the collectibles market.
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